Flag and Emblem of the Sending State

Subject(s):

Diplomatic immunity — Diplomatic missions — Diplomatic relations — Diplomatic privileges — Flag state

This chapter explores Article 20 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations which deals with the use of the flag and emblem of the sending State by the members of the diplomatic mission. The Article confers the right to the mission and its head to use the flag and emblem of the sending State on the premises of the mission, including the residence of the head of the mission, and on his means of transport. The chapter describes how international law imposes a high duty of protection on the receiving State wherever a flag of the sending State is flown. The main purpose of the privilege is to enable the authorities of the receiving State to extend special courtesies and priority in traffic. Identifiable registration numbers are also issued in many capitals, and these serve the same purpose.